Stakeholder engagement framework to improve public housing delivery: A Stellenbosch case study

Background: Inadequate housing in South Africa emanates from the apartheid regime’s legacy of injustice. The post-apartheid government developed a constitution to address this legacy. However, insufficient stakeholder engagement by municipalities remains a pervasive issue, contributing to the failure to meet community expectations in delivering adequate housing units. Aim: This study aims to develop a general stakeholder engagement framework to improve the delivery of public housing projects at the local government level. Setting: Individuals involved in or affected by public housing projects in Stellenbosch Municipality Methods: A qualitative research approach was adopted, using semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions. A sample of 30 participants (Ward councillors, Traditional leaders, Project managers, Human Settlement staff and Beneficiary committee members) was purposefully selected; ATLAS.ti software was used to analyse the data. Results: Key findings from the study highlight insufficient public input, poor communication and political polarisation as key factors contributing to the delivery challenges of public housing projects at the local government level. Conclusion: The framework highlights the importance of proactive feedback integration and collaboration in overcoming challenges, contributing to more effective and inclusive housing delivery in South Africa. Contribution: This study proposes a stakeholder engagement framework for the proactive integration of feedback from those affected by housing project delivery, addressing challenges in South African public housing. It emphasises collaboration and systematic involvement throughout the project lifecycle to improve outcomes, efficiency, and community satisfaction.